The Algarve is a fantastic spot for a surf holiday, and here are the top beaches to add to your surfing bucket list.
Not only does the Algarve have some of the best weather in Europe, as well as stunning beaches and a beautiful beach town, but it is also a great surfing region to visit.
With plenty of beaches that feature incredible waves for experienced and beginner surfers, the Algarve is a wonderful surfing destination, no matter your skill level.
So, if you fancy soaking up the sun, enjoying glorious surf days and meeting other surfers, check out these ten best spots for surfing in and around Lagos, Portugal.
10. Praia de Bordeira − some of the best surfing near Lagos
This stunning beach is lined with sand dunes and is one of the most popular spots for surfing in and around Lagos.
This place is best surfed in Autumn when there are fewer crowds, but the broad beach opens onto a left point break, with large waves in the winter months.
Address: Portugal
9. Praia do Cordoama − a secluded beach break
Just half an hour west of Lagos, nestled on the wild Atlantic coast, you will find Praia do Cordoama, which is one of the best places to surf in the region. This is a fantastic place to escape the crowds since this isolated beach requires your transport to get there so that you can enjoy the waves.
Address: Portugal
8. Praia do Telheiro − a wild and rugged surfing location
Located to the west of Sagres, just forty-five minutes from Lagos, is Praia do Telheiro. This is one of the best spots for surfing in and around Lagos since the beach faces a westerly direction, making it ideal for both surfing and bodyboarding. With stunning scenery and an isolated feel, this is a surfing mecca.
Address: Portugal
7. Praia do Tonel − the main surfing spot in Sagres
Praia do Tonel is one of the most popular spots for surfing in and around Lagos and is a sought-after spot due to its beautiful views and cliffside landscape.
Located just ten minutes from Sagres, this golden sand beach is one of the best places to enjoy an awesome surfing vibe and huge waves, especially in winter.
Address: Portugal
6. Praia do Zavial − an ideal spot for all surf levels
Portugal is not short of scenic beaches or excellent surf spots, and Praia do Zavial certainly fits this description.
This fantastic beach offers surfers of all levels, varied sized waves and depending on the swell, it is ideal for beginners all the way to pro surfers.
Address: Portugal
5. Praia do Amado − for surf camps and great vibes
Praia do Amado is one of the best places for surfing in and around Lagos, especially since it is home to an abundance of surf schools, so you can really master the art.
This surf destination features a long stretch of beach and excellent infrastructure, which is why it is one of the top surf spots in Europe.
Address: Portugal
4. Praia da Arrifana − a hidden gem along the Algarve
Located in the western region of the Algarve, not far from the bustling town of Lagos, Arrifana Beach is not just a gorgeous bay to marvel at; it is one of the best places to enjoy surfing. If you are seeking relaxed beach vibes, great eateries and consistent waves, Arrifana must be considered.
Address: Portugal
3. Praia da Luz − an underrated surfing destination
This famous resort town is more than just a place for a beach holiday; the surf breaks here are similar to those of Porto Mos, making it an excellent spot for a surfing holiday.
While this is a beginner-friendly spot, there can be a few hazards, so always take care and observe the wave conditions.
Address: Portugal
2. Praia do Porto de Mos − a secluded beach with great surf
This well-equipped beach has everything an experienced surfer looks for, including powerful and consistent waves, excellent beach and reef breaks, and a secluded location.
It is ideal for surfing from November to March, making it one of the best spots in and around Lagos.
Address: Portugal
1. Meia Praia − a popular surf spot in Lagos
As one of the best spots for surfing in and around Lagos, Meia Praia is a popular choice for all skill levels.
This long and wide stretch of beach is well known for its consistent waves, and you will find both beginner and advanced surfers here all year round, especially in winter when the waves are at their best.
Address: Portugal
Notable mentions
Beliche: This can be one of the best places to catch some surf if you are patient enough to wait for them to arrive, but when it does, it is one of the best surf breaks in Sagres.
Martinhal: This is a haven for beginner surfers since it is one of the best-protected beaches in the region, with relatively calm waves and plenty of surf schools.
Mareta: Another excellent beginner surfing spot is Mareta, east of Sagres and well protected from the winds, similar to Martinhal.
Carvoveiro: Located in the western Algarve, this idyllic fishing town is also home to some excellent surfing conditions, especially for beginner-level surfers.
FAQs about the best surfing spots in Lagos
What is the best time to go surfing in Lagos?
Surfing in the popular area of Lagos is best between September and March when swells are at their best, but surfing is possible all year.
Is the sea in Lagos warm?
The average temperature of the sea is around 23C (73F), which makes it a comfortable sea to surf and swim in.
Where to surf in the Algarve for beginners?
Praia do Mareta, Martinhal and Praia da Luz are great surfing spots for beginner surfers, with small and manageable waves.
So, if you want to add a new surfing destination to your bucket list, visit Lagos, which is home to these incredible surfing spots.
Lagos and surrounding areas offer some of the best surfing conditions in Portugal, so check out these best spots for surfing in and around Lagos if you fancy a fabulous surfing holiday.
